Holy Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram in the Hijri calendar, is being observed across Bangladesh on Friday with solemnity and religious fervor.

The day holds profound religious, historical, and spiritual significance for the Muslim Ummah and is marked by deep mourning.

The date carries immense weight as it commemorates the events of 10 Muharram in 61 Hijri (680 AD), when one of the most tragic and heartrending events in history occurred on the plain of Karbala, located on the banks of the Euphrates River in Iraq.

While the day is associated with several historical events in Islam, the tragedy of Karbala has given Holy Ashura a special place of reverence.

It was on this day that the beloved grandson of the Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH), Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), along with members of his family and close companions, embraced martyrdom while standing for truth and justice against the forces of Yazid.

Their sacrifice in the struggle to uphold the true ideals of Islam, human dignity, and justice remains an unforgettable chapter in history.

In observance of the occasion, President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman issued separate messages, in which they called upon all to embrace the teachings of Holy Ashura and work towards building a peaceful, humane, just, and prosperous Bangladesh.

As the day is a public holiday, the country is witnessing widespread observances.

Bangladesh Betar, Bangladesh Television, and various private media outlets are broadcasting special programmes highlighting the significance of the occasion.

Religious discussions, milad mahfils, recitations from the Holy Quran, prayers and special munajats are being held nationwide, including in the capital.

The Shia community is observing the day with due religious solemnity and a mournful atmosphere by bringing out Tazia processions, holding mourning gatherings, and arranging other religious programmes in different parts of Dhaka.

To ensure the smooth observance of these events, law enforcement agencies have implemented necessary security measures.

Furthermore, on the eve of the occasion, the Islamic Foundation under the Ministry of Religious Affairs organized a discussion and prayer meeting titled "Importance and Significance of Ashura" on Thursday at the south veranda of Baitul Mukarram.